Fish Identification

Stop Saying "Look at That Fish"—Know What You’re Seeing

Description: Is that a Grunt or a Snapper? An Angelfish or a Butterflyfish? For many divers, the reef is a blur of color and motion. The SSI Fish Identification program gives you the tools to bring that picture into focus.

This course teaches you to look for the "clues" that reveal a fish’s identity—body shape, fin configuration, habitat, and behavior. You will move beyond simply seeing fish to understanding the specific families that populate the reef. Whether you are diving a local wreck or a tropical wall, this course transforms your dive from a passive visit into an active underwater safari.

Why Choose the SSI Fish Identification Course?

• Unlock the Reef: Once you learn the common families, you will spot species you never noticed before. It adds a new layer of fun to every dive.

• Flexible Learning: This SSI Ecology program focuses on knowledge and observation. It can be completed as a "dry" specialty (classroom/digital only) or combined with open water dives to practice your survey skills.

• Digital Access: Study the materials anywhere with the MySSI App. It’s the perfect way to pass the time on a flight to your next dive vacation.

• Career Progress: This certification counts toward your SSI Advanced Open Water recognition and is a stepping stone to the SSI Master Diver rating.

What You Will Learn:

• Identification Strategies: How to group fish by family (e.g., Parrotfish, Groupers, Damselfish) using body shape, mouth position, and tail type.

• Behavioral Clues: How a fish swims, eats, and hides helps you identify it even if you can't see the colors clearly.

• Survey Techniques: How to conduct fish surveys (similar to those used by marine biologists) to record biodiversity.

• Ecosystem Role: Understanding where specific fish fit in the food web and why maintaining diversity is crucial for a healthy ocean.

Course Prerequisites:

• Minimum Age: 10 Years Old

• Certification: None required for the academic portion (Open to snorkelers and non-divers!).